Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women, second only to skin cancer. Doctors’ preferred technique for detecting breast cancer is via mammogram, and there are two types of mammograms: 2D and 3D.
3D mammograms use newer technology that offers significant advantages over the 2D version. Whereas a 2D mammogram captures individual images of your breast tissue – like photographs – a 3D mammogram involves the machine rotating around your body to capture multiple images from many different angles and combining them for a three-dimensional image. This way, even tiny tumors can be detected more easily.
You will be asked to hold your breath and remain completely still for just a few seconds while the machine rotates around your torso. Let’s talk about some of the main advantages of a 3D mammogram as compared to a 2D mammogram, and where you can go here in The Bronx for top-quality 3D mammograms.
2D vs. 3D Mammograms
The key reasons why 3D mammograms are better than the 2D version include the following:
Superior Image Detail and Quality
The most significant difference between 2D and 3D mammograms is the level of detail in the resulting images. Unlike 2D mammography, which is limited to flat images, 3D mammograms produce multiple three-dimensional and cross-sectional pictures taken from different angles. Specifically, your doctor can view your breast tissue images in one-millimeter slices, which is similar to CT scan images but without the high dose of radiation.
High-Precision Accuracy
The level of precision in 3D mammograms allows a radiologist to spot problem areas that may not be readily visible in a 2D mammogram. A radiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in administering and analyzing medical imaging, and this doctor will give a written assessment of your mammogram results to your doctor for further review.
The radiologist who analyzes your mammogram will look for high-density regions that may indicate a tumor, suspicious mass, or cyst. They pay close attention to the size, shape, and contrast of the abnormal area – signs that may indicate whether the mass is malignant.
Fewer False Positives
Standard mammograms can sometimes be difficult to interpret due to the wide variation in breast tissue from woman to woman. Dense breasts with significant fibrous tissue and little fatty tissue are generally more difficult to capture and assess than are those with more fat (adipose) tissue. A 2D mammogram, which is usually limited to a top and side view, might not identify small tumors located deep in the dense tissue.
High-Quality 3D Mammograms in The Bronx, NY
If you want to have a 3D mammogram for ultra-accurate results, Starling Diagnostics is here for you in The Bronx. Our board-certified radiologists use state-of-the-art equipment to perform 3D mammograms, so your doctor is able to make an informed diagnosis and prognosis, if applicable.
We also offer DEXA bone density scans and ultrasound as part of our women’s specialty healthcare services, as well as MRI and CT scans to provide diagnostics for everyone. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a scan, call us today at (718) 319-1610 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to helping you stay on top of your health!
